The Netflix documentary The Investigation of Lucy Letby, released in February 2026, is drawing criticism not for its recounting of a harrowing case – the conviction of British neonatal nurse Lucy Letby for the murder of seven infants and attempted murder of six others at the Countess of Chester Hospital – but for its controversial apply of artificial intelligence. While true crime documentaries often grapple with ethical considerations surrounding victims and witnesses, this film has ignited a debate about the appropriate role of AI-generated content in non-fiction storytelling, and whether it undermines the very foundation of documentary filmmaking.
Letby, a former nurse, was convicted in August 2023, according to Forbes, after an investigation into a cluster of deaths and collapses in the hospital’s neonatal unit between 2015, and 2016. The case itself is deeply disturbing, and the documentary aimed to explore the investigation and its aftermath. However, the decision to utilize AI to create visual representations of interviewees, specifically a mother of a murdered infant and a former friend of Letby, has overshadowed discussions about the evidence and the outcome of the trial.
The Rise of AI in Documentary Filmmaking and the Backlash
Filmmakers have increasingly explored AI as a tool to protect the anonymity of sensitive sources, particularly in cases involving trauma or potential risk. The intention behind using AI-generated interviews in The Investigation of Lucy Letby was to maintain the emotional impact of these testimonies while safeguarding the identities of those involved. However, as reported by CBR, many viewers find these digitally created interviews jarring and inauthentic, arguing they detract from the realism expected in a fact-based documentary.
The core of the criticism centers on the uncanny valley effect – the feeling of unease when encountering something almost, but not quite, human. The AI-generated faces and voices, while intended to convey emotion, instead appear artificial and animated, prompting viewers to focus on the technology itself rather than the harrowing stories being told. This has led some to describe the documentary as resembling a “mockumentary,” a parody of a documentary rather than a genuine exploration of a real-life tragedy.
Why Realism Matters in True Crime
Documentaries, particularly those dealing with true crime, rely heavily on establishing trust with the audience. This trust is built on the presentation of verifiable evidence, real footage, and firsthand accounts. While dramatizations and reenactments are sometimes used, they are typically clearly identified as such. The use of AI-generated interviews blurs this line, creating a sense of unease and questioning the authenticity of the entire presentation.
As CBR notes, viewers generally expect documentaries to utilize real videos, images, and first-person accounts to support their claims. The inclusion of AI-generated content disrupts this expectation, prompting viewers to scrutinize the filmmaking process rather than fully engaging with the story. Alternative methods, such as voice actors or carefully selected archival footage, could have been employed to protect anonymity without sacrificing the sense of realism.
The case of Lucy Letby is particularly sensitive, given the devastating nature of the crimes and the profound grief experienced by the families involved. The use of AI, however well-intentioned, risks further traumatizing those affected and diminishing the gravity of the situation. The documentary’s attempt to convey emotion through artificial means ultimately falls flat, leaving viewers feeling disconnected and skeptical.
A Growing Concern About AI’s Role in Visual Storytelling
The controversy surrounding The Investigation of Lucy Letby is not an isolated incident. It reflects a broader debate about the ethical implications of AI in visual storytelling. As AI technology becomes more sophisticated and accessible, filmmakers are increasingly tempted to use it to overcome logistical challenges or enhance their narratives. However, this raises questions about the responsibility of filmmakers to maintain transparency and uphold the integrity of their work.
The use of AI in documentaries raises concerns about manipulation and the potential for creating false narratives. If viewers cannot readily distinguish between real and artificial content, it becomes more difficult to assess the credibility of the information presented. This represents particularly problematic in the context of true crime, where the stakes are high and the consequences of misinformation can be severe.
The backlash against The Investigation of Lucy Letby serves as a cautionary tale for filmmakers considering the use of AI. While the technology may offer certain advantages, it is crucial to weigh those benefits against the potential risks to authenticity, trust, and ethical storytelling. The documentary’s failure to resonate with audiences underscores the importance of prioritizing realism and transparency in the pursuit of truth.
As of February 17, 2026, Netflix has not issued a formal response to the criticism surrounding the documentary’s use of AI. The debate surrounding the film is likely to continue, prompting further discussion about the evolving role of technology in documentary filmmaking and the need for clear ethical guidelines. Viewers interested in learning more about the Lucy Letby case can find detailed information on Wikipedia and through news coverage from sources like Forbes.
What are your thoughts on the use of AI in documentaries? Share your opinions in the comments below.
